For many, a car is a tool for commuting, family trips, or errands. Features like fuel efficiency, reliability, and safety often top the priority list. But for a select group of enthusiasts, the ultimate automotive desire is pure, unadulterated speed. If you fall into this category, you’ve likely wondered: just how fast can a road-legal car truly go?
Prepare to have your expectations shattered. In a world where engineering and innovation push boundaries relentlessly, a handful of cars transcend mere transportation and enter the realm of hypercars. These aren’t just fast; they are mind-bendingly, physics-defyingly quick. If you possess deep pockets and access to a track long enough to unleash their potential, you’ll find a surprising number of vehicles capable of breaching the 250 mph mark, and some that even flirt with the elusive 300 mph barrier. Let’s delve into the elite echelon of automotive velocity and explore these engineering masterpieces that define “fastest cars in the world”.
The Fastest Cars in the World
1. Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut – Over 310mph (499km/h)
Koenigsegg has cemented its reputation for crafting some of the most extreme and awe-inspiring hypercars on the planet. The Jesko Absolut represents the pinnacle of their pursuit of speed. At its heart lies a monstrous 1,600 horsepower twin-turbocharged V8 engine, enabling it to rocket from 0 to 60mph in a mere 2.5 seconds.
Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut
The Swedish manufacturer boldly claims the Jesko Absolut will exceed 310mph, a figure derived from sophisticated computer simulations and rigorous dyno testing. However, it’s important to note that this speed is yet to be officially verified in real-world conditions. The automotive world eagerly awaits the moment when the Jesko Absolut attempts to validate its staggering potential on a high-speed track. Whether it achieves this benchmark remains to be seen, but the sheer engineering prowess behind this machine is undeniable.
2. SSC Tuatara – 295mph (475km/h)
While the Bugatti Chiron’s intricate W16 engine is a marvel of engineering complexity, the SSC Tuatara demonstrates the raw power and effectiveness of a colossal V8 engine augmented by forced induction. The Tuatara, pronounced “Too-ah-ta-ra,” boasts a twin-turbocharged V8 powerhouse that unleashes a staggering 1,750 horsepower when fueled with ethanol. This American hypercar has been at the center of top speed debates.
SSC Tuatara
SSC initially claimed a record-shattering 331mph top speed in October 2020, briefly crowning the Tuatara as the world’s fastest production car. However, a subsequent admission of GPS data inaccuracies cast doubt on this figure. Later tests in early 2022 saw the Tuatara achieve a verified top speed of 295mph. While not the initially claimed record, 295mph is an astonishing feat of engineering, firmly placing the Tuatara among the fastest cars ever produced.
3. Bugatti Tourbillon – 277mph (446km/h)
For many, the name Bugatti is synonymous with top speed. The legacy began with the Veyron and its iconic showdowns with fighter jets. This spirit of relentless pursuit of velocity continues with the Bugatti Tourbillon, the latest hypercar from the legendary French marque.
New Bugatti Tourbillon front driving
The Tourbillon is propelled by an immense 1,800 horsepower V16 hybrid engine. This potent powertrain launches this £3.2 million luxury missile from 0 to 60mph in under 2.0 seconds. Bugatti’s history suggests that even faster iterations are likely to emerge in the future. After all, they successfully pushed the previous Chiron model beyond the 300mph threshold, setting a benchmark that the Tourbillon aims to surpass.
4. Hennessey Venom F5 – 272mph (438km/h)
The United States is making a significant impact in the high-speed automotive arena, with another all-American supercar claiming a top spot. The Hennessey Venom F5 is a testament to American engineering muscle, packing a 6.6-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine that churns out a colossal 1,817 horsepower and 1,617 Nm of torque.
Hennessey Venom F5
This immense power translates to blistering acceleration, propelling the Venom F5 from 0 to 60mph in a mere 2.6 seconds, and onwards to a verified top speed of 272mph. However, Hennessey is not resting on its laurels. The company has publicly stated its ambition to push the Venom F5 beyond the 300mph barrier, with targeted attempts planned for 2024 and beyond. The quest for even greater velocity continues.
5. Rimac Nevera – 256mph (412km/h)
Electric vehicles (EVs) are renowned for their instantaneous acceleration, thanks to the readily available torque from electric motors. However, the significant weight of battery packs can often limit their top-speed potential. The Rimac Nevera defies this convention.
Rimac Nevera
This all-electric hypercar is a technological tour-de-force, featuring four electric motors that collectively generate an astounding 1,914 horsepower and 2,300 Nm of torque. This power catapults the Nevera from 0 to 60mph in a mind-boggling 1.9 seconds, continuing to a top speed of 256mph. Constructed almost entirely from carbon fiber to minimize weight, the Nevera isn’t just a stripped-down speed machine. Its interior is luxuriously appointed, offering all the amenities expected of a car in the £2 million price bracket.
6. McLaren Speedtail – 250mph (402km/h)
McLaren designed the Speedtail with a focus on aerodynamic efficiency and grand touring capability, rather than outright top speed records. However, in achieving its design goals, they inadvertently created the fastest road car in their history, boasting a 250mph top speed.
McLaren Speedtail
This velocity surpasses even the legendary McLaren F1, its iconic three-seat predecessor. The Speedtail’s exceptionally streamlined bodywork, devoid of drag-inducing wings, gives it a futuristic, almost otherworldly aesthetic, reminiscent of cyberpunk visions. Imagine experiencing 250mph with two passengers comfortably seated alongside you – a truly unique and exhilarating proposition.
7. Koenigsegg Regera – 250mph (402km/h)
Joining the Speedtail at the 250mph mark is another Koenigsegg, the Regera, marking the Swedish brand’s second entry on this list. The Regera employs a twin-turbo V8 engine working in conjunction with an electric motor, delivering a combined output of 1,500 horsepower.
Koenigsegg Regera
Uniquely, the Regera can accelerate from 0 to 250mph using a single gear. This innovative direct-drive system eliminates traditional gear changes, providing seamless and relentless acceleration throughout its speed range. Whether cruising at 30mph or aiming for its 250mph top speed (on a closed track, of course), the Regera operates in the same gear – a testament to Koenigsegg’s unconventional and ingenious engineering approach.
8. Aston Martin Valkyrie – 250mph (402km/h)
Visually, the Aston Martin Valkyrie pushes the boundaries of what’s considered road-legal. Its extreme, aerodynamic form factor might suggest a purebred Le Mans race car, yet it is indeed homologated for street use.
Aston Martin Valkyrie
Positioned behind the driver is a high-revving 6.5-liter hybrid V12 engine producing 1,160 horsepower. This powerplant propels this Formula 1-inspired road racer from 0 to 60mph in a mere 2.5 seconds. This rapid acceleration is no surprise when considering its remarkably low weight, barely exceeding one tonne. The Valkyrie represents a fusion of Formula 1 technology and road car usability.
9. Pagani Huayra – 238mph (383km/h)
The Pagani Huayra is celebrated not only for its blistering speed but also for its breathtaking aesthetics. Every detail of the Huayra exudes exquisite craftsmanship, making it as much a rolling work of art as a high-performance machine. Beyond its visual appeal, the Huayra delivers formidable performance.
Pagani Huayra
It’s powered by an AMG-derived twin-turbocharged V12 engine generating 730 horsepower and 1,000 Nm of torque, sufficient to reach a top speed of 238mph. The Huayra’s construction heavily utilizes carbon fiber to minimize weight and enhance structural rigidity. Active aerodynamic elements further optimize airflow, enabling it to slice through the air with remarkable efficiency.
10. Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 – 233mph (375km/h)
Rounding out the top 10, we find a more accessible and “blue-collar” entry. The Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 recently claimed the tenth spot, surpassing the Lamborghini Revuelto’s 217mph top speed by reaching 233mph in October 2024.
Chevrolet Corvette ZR1
Unlike many of its European counterparts, the Corvette ZR1 forgoes complex hybrid systems. Instead, it relies on a potent, traditionally American approach: a good ol’ fashioned 5.5-liter V8 engine augmented with two turbochargers. This engine produces a staggering 1,064 horsepower, making it the most powerful V8 engine ever manufactured by an American automaker for a production car. The ZR1 proves that raw power and traditional engineering can still compete at the highest levels of automotive speed.
The Fastest Cars Available on Carwow
While the hypercars above represent the absolute pinnacle of automotive speed, Carwow also offers access to a range of incredibly fast performance cars that are more attainable. Here are some of the quickest models you can explore on Carwow:
1. Mercedes-AMG GT – 196mph (315km/h)
The latest Mercedes-AMG GT builds upon the strengths of its predecessor, enhancing performance, driving dynamics, and desirability. It’s not just exceptionally fast, reaching 196mph, but also engaging to drive and surprisingly practical for a supercar. This impressive performance is delivered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing 585 horsepower, accompanied by a thunderous exhaust note that enhances the driving experience.
2. Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio – 191mph (307km/h)
Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio
If you crave a high-performance saloon with blistering speed, the Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio is a compelling option. This twin-turbo V6 saloon unleashes a potent 510 horsepower, exclusively sent to the rear wheels. With ample space, the Giulia Quadrifoglio can reach 191mph when given enough road. Despite its supercar-level performance, it remains a practical daily driver, capable of handling school runs while delivering an exhilarating driving experience. The raucous exhaust note is sure to turn heads and possibly embarrass the kids.
3. BMW M8 Competition – 190mph (306km/h)
BMW M8 Competition
For a vehicle equally adept on the racetrack and long-distance journeys, the BMW M8 Competition stands out as a seriously impressive GT car. With the optional M Driver’s Pack, it can reach a top speed of 190mph. However, it’s far from a stripped-out race car. The M8 Competition is laden with luxury features, boasts a sophisticated infotainment system, and offers genuine comfort for extended drives. It blends high performance with grand touring refinement.
4. Audi RS7 Performance – 174mph (280km/h)
New Audi RS7 Sportback Performance
If the M8 doesn’t quite appeal, the Audi RS7 Performance offers a compelling alternative. Another GT car powered by a 4.0-liter V8 engine, similar to the BMW, it slightly trails the M8 in top speed, reaching 174mph. Despite this difference in top speed, in a carwow drag race, the RS7 outperformed the M8 over the quarter-mile, demonstrating its exceptional acceleration. The RS7 Performance balances speed with Audi’s signature blend of technology and luxury.
5. Lexus LC500 – 168mph (270km/h)
Lexus LC front
For those seeking a more unconventional alternative to the typical German GT cars, the Lexus LC500 presents a striking option. This gorgeous coupe is powered by a naturally aspirated V8 engine, delivering a thrilling soundtrack and ample performance. The interior is meticulously crafted and luxurious, ideal for comfortable long-distance cruising. With a top speed of 168mph and a 0-60mph time of 4.6 seconds, the LC500 offers a blend of speed, luxury, and distinctive Japanese design.
Fastest Cars FAQs
What is the fastest production car in the world?
Officially, the Koenigsegg Jesko Absolut holds the title of the fastest production car in the world based on its theoretical top speed exceeding 310mph. However, this figure is based on simulations and has not yet been independently verified in real-world testing. Until the Jesko Absolut achieves this speed on public record, the Bugatti Chiron Super Sport 300+ retains the verified record for the fastest production car, having reached a top speed of 304mph.
What is the fastest car from 0-60mph?
The Rimac Nevera currently claims the title of the quickest accelerating car in the world, capable of launching from 0 to 60mph in a breathtaking 1.9 seconds. Its electric powertrain delivers instant torque, enabling this remarkable acceleration.
What is the fastest anyone has gone in a car?
In terms of production cars, Bugatti test driver Andy Wallace piloted the Chiron Super Sport 300+ to its record-setting 304mph top speed. However, the absolute fastest speed ever achieved in any car is 763mph. This record was set by Andy Green in the Thrust SSC, a jet-powered land speed record car. The Thrust SSC is a far cry from a production car, representing the extreme limits of land-based velocity.
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